I'm new to the forum and considering teaching overseas for a couple of years. I'm a native English speaker from the U.S. I have 10+ years of professional experience in the non-profit and government sectors and have written reports for government officials and a Mayor of a mid-sized American city.

I have a Master in Public Administration degree which focuses strongly on business communications/writing within the public sector. I will be completing either a TEFL or CELTA certificate.

I do not have formal teaching experience, though I have tutored over the years and currently mentor high school and college students.

I've been advised that my experience should open up opportunities to teach English in Business and Academic environments. I was hoping for feedback from those in this forum on:

a. The accuracy of that advice
b. Potential pay rate for business/academic
c. Where to start in looking for these types of positions.

Thank you all in advance for your advice and feedback. I truly appreciate it.

I've been advised that my experience should open up opportunities to teach English in Business and Academic environments. I was hoping for feedback from those in this forum on:

a. The accuracy of that advice
b. Potential pay rate for business/academic
c. Where to start in looking for these types of positions.

This forum and the TEFL market are rather dormant for the following reasons:

- English is widely spoken in many countries in the region; for some, it's the official language
- Qualified locals are given hiring priority for English teaching jobs
- French language skills and/or possibly a passport from an EU country may be required for some countries
- Unemployment is high and wages are low in much of the Caribbean
- The region attracts a good number of expats (especially retirees) from the US, Canada, etc.; some teach English

Such is the nature of TEFL; the need/demand isn't universal. Don't focus solely on the exotic and adventure when considering countries that interest you.

I used to teach English in the Caribbean decades ago and earned a lot of money as a free lancer..nowadays forget it...everyone speaks English there and retirees dominate the EFL teaching market almost everywhere to be had.

Esl_prof is the person you want to ask about the Caribbean. He used to be quite active on Dave's, but I haven't seen him around since last spring. It might be worth sending him a pm, in case he still checks in. Alternatively, search this forum for his posts. I remember he had some useful advice for working in the region, as well as a couple of specific recommendations for where to apply. But in general: low, low wages, and not too many openings, although there are plenty of venues for volunteering.

Teaching English in the Caribbean these days for money is an exercise in futility....volunteering is the ONLY way to go...and yet that might not be enough...you need to cover almost all of your expenses....and bring enough money to support you (preferably a good pension) just like your local retiree from the north!